All Modules / Module 6 / Lesson 2 of 4

Using variables to lock down the parts that don't change

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Aliases: Custom Commands

An alias is a shortcut for a command. You create a short name that runs a longer command.

Create an Alias

1

Create an alias to open your Documents folder:

alias docs="cd ~/Documents"
2

Now just type:

docs

You've created a custom command. Type docs and you're in Documents.

Useful Alias Ideas

  • alias ll="ls -la" — detailed file listing
  • alias desk="cd ~/Desktop" — jump to Desktop
  • alias c="clear" — quick screen clear

Key Takeaway

Aliases turn long commands into short ones. alias shortname="long command"